Tampa Bay Buccaneers 7-round Mock Draft: 3 ways Jason Licht could go about building around Baker Mayfield

During the 2023 NFL season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers surpassed expectations as they advanced to the second round of the playoffs. Their decision to give Baker Mayfield a chance as the starting quarterback proved to be successful, leading them to reward him with a contract extension.

The team’s management, led by general manager Jason Licht, can now concentrate on constructing a team centered around their quarterback instead of trying to find a permanent solution. They will have the chance to do so again in the 2024 NFL draft.

There are various approaches that they can take for this vital annual event in their efforts to make it back to the playoffs this year.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Mock Draft 2.0

26th Pick: Laiatu Latu, EDGE, UCLA Bruins

In the NFL, edge rushers hold great significance as their defensive impact is crucial. The Buccaneers, who currently lack strength in this position, would benefit from targeting an edge rusher in the first round.

84th overall: A.J. Green, WR, Georgia Bulldogs

In this hypothetical trade, Tampa Bay received a second-round pick for next year from the Los Angeles Rams in exchange for moving down in the current year’s draft. Despite this, they were still able to secure a highly coveted offensive guard prospect, which filled a crucial position for their team.

90th overall: Jermar Jefferson, RB, Oregon State Beavers

Although their defense is generally strong, cornerbacks remain a significant weakness for the team. It is expected that they will focus on acquiring at least one, if not multiple, cornerbacks in this year’s draft.

99th overall: Deon Thompson, WR, Toronto Argonauts

The franchise acquires an extra fourth-round pick from the Rams in a trade, which they then use to move back in this year’s draft. This pick allows them to select Qwan’tez Stiggers, a top defensive prospect from the CFL who is looking to make the transition to the NFL.

125th Overall Pick: Mike Sainristil, Cornerback from Michigan

On this occasion, they have acquired a contributor from the highly-regarded defense of the Michigan Wolverines.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2021 NFL Draft Predictions and Analysis

26th Overall Pick: Jackson Powers-Johnson, Offensive Center, Oregon Ducks

It would be beneficial for the Buccaneers to enhance their offensive line’s interior. Jackson Powers-Johnson possesses the flexibility to play both guard and center, making him a valuable addition to the team.

59th Overall Pick: Adisa Isaac, EDGE, Penn State Nittany Lions

The simulator has once again projected a premium pick being used for a pass rusher in the second consecutive mock draft. This pick has the potential to elevate their already strong defense to an even higher level.

103rd overall: Cameron Harris, RB, Alabama Crimson Tide

Furthermore, the Buccaneers continued to make moves in the trade market for the second consecutive simulation, showing their proactive approach to building for the future. By trading down, they were able to secure additional draft picks for next year, strategically maximizing their long-term potential. Despite this, they were still able to secure a highly-regarded cornerback, addressing one of their most pressing needs.

115th Overall: Ray Davis, Running Back, Kentucky Wildcats

Rachaad White performed exceptionally well in the passing game and on the edges of the offense, but he faced challenges when attempting to consistently run the ball between the tackles. The addition of Ray Davis, whose college football career has focused on this specific task, could potentially remedy this issue for the team.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2022 NFL Draft predictions

26th Overall Pick: Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa Hawkeyes

In Todd Bowles’ defensive system, physicality at the line of scrimmage is a key aspect for his cornerbacks in press-man coverage. Given his expertise in this defensive approach, Cooper DeJean is a perfect match for the team.

57th overall: Daniel Falls, OT, Minnesota Golden Gophers

The simulator has once again predicted that the Buccaneers will prioritize selecting an interior offensive lineman with a premium pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL draft, marking the third consecutive mock draft in which this has been recognized as a priority for the team.

89th overall: Donovan Peoples-Jones, WR, Michigan Wolverines

The Buccaneers’ blitzing game is highly effective, but they have room for improvement on the edge of their defense this season. To address this, they have acquired Jonah Elliss, a skilled pass rusher who fits their needs perfectly.

125th overall: Michael Wilson, WR, Stanford Cardinal

In Tampa Bay this year, it would not be wise to double up on the cornerback position. The team is currently lacking depth in this position group, which could negatively impact their overall success.

125th Overall: Kentucky RB Ray Davis Selected by Unknown Team

Ray Davis was the perfect choice for them in the 2024 NFL draft, as confirmed by the Mock Draft Simulator in two separate simulations. With his selection, he forms a formidable duo with Rachaad White, where their individual strengths complement each other’s weaknesses.

177th overall: Noah Gray, TE, Duke Blue Devils

Even in later rounds of a draft, it can be difficult to identify promising prospects. As a result, teams often choose to take a chance on a highly sought-after position, such as an edge player, in hopes of uncovering a hidden gem.